Although most car accidents are caused by driver error, negligence, or recklessness, many people may not realize how many crashes, injuries, and fatalities happen because of a vehicle defect. Anyone who is injured in a crash caused by a vehicle defect can still pursue legal action for the losses their injuries have caused. In most cases, the liable party is usually a party that was involved in producing the vehicle. These car accident claims can be complex, so it is important to speak with an Illinois personal injury attorney to find out what your legal options are.

Defective Vehicle Crashes

According to a study conducted by Stanford University, driver error is responsible for approximately 90 percent of the two million car accidents each year. Although vehicle defects account for under 5 percent of crashes, this still adds up to about 120,000 accidents each year.

There are three types of defects that a defective product case can be based on:

Accidents happen, and sometimes, pedestrians are involved in collisions while jaywalking. If you have been struck by a car while jaywalking in Illinois, you may wonder if you still have the right to pursue compensation for your injuries. Luckily, jaywalkers in Illinois can indeed pursue compensation. If you have found yourself injured, contact a personal injury attorney to ensure you can seek the compensation you may be entitled to.

Individuals Involved in an Accident Can Share Blame in Illinois

In Illinois, the concept of comparative negligence comes into play when determining liability in personal injury cases. Comparative negligence allows both parties involved in an accident to share responsibility. While jaywalking is considered a violation of traffic laws, it does not automatically excuse a driver who hits a pedestrian of all liability. Illinois follows a modified comparative fault rule, meaning you may still be able to get compensation even if you were partially at fault, as long as your share of fault does not exceed 50 percent.